Breakthrough Event Celebrates Aminata Touré and Inspires Change on PMC’s 25th Anniversary

Burlington, VT – May 11, 2023 – A momentous event hosted at Hotel Vermont in Burlington brought together leaders, advocates, and game-changers to celebrate Population Media Center’s (PMC) 25th anniversary and honor the incredible contributions of Aminata Touré, former Prime Minister of Senegal. 

PMC, a renowned nonprofit organization, has been dedicated to empowering individuals and communities through transformative storytelling for 25 years. Inspiring audiences with powerful entertainment-education programs, PMC addresses critical issues such as women’s rights, population stabilization, and the environment, fostering positive change on a global scale. 

The event showcased the groundbreaking impact of PMC’s initiatives, particularly the remarkable video game BREAKAWAY, developed in collaboration with Champlain College and Touré. BREAKAWAY harnesses the power of gaming to address violence against women, bullying, and gender equality, empowering players aged 8 to 15 to make choices that promote positive change on and off the field. Since its launch at the 2010 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament in South Africa, the game has captivated youth worldwide, reaching over 150 countries. 

Touré, a champion of gender equity and human rights, played a pivotal role in funding the creation of BREAKAWAY during her tenure at the United Nations Population Fund. Her visionary leadership and dedication to gender equity and human rights inspired the game’s development and its successful implementation worldwide. 

“I would like to congratulate Population Media Center and Champlain College. I am very proud that this game came a long way and it’s been implemented throughout the world,” Touré said on Thursday.  

“When you talk about violence against women, it’s not a poor country issue, not at all. It cuts across races, cultures, income,” Touré added. “I think when you have that base of equality, that base of refusing dominance, that base of nurturing respect, then it becomes obvious to you that it’s the way to go.”  

In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Champlain College bestowed Touré the esteemed honor of a Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa, during their 2023 commencement ceremony. This honorary degree acknowledges her extraordinary leadership, dedication and tireless efforts in promoting human rights and social progress. 

PMC’s 25th anniversary celebration and the recognition of Aminata Touré’s remarkable journey highlighted the power of collaboration, innovation, and storytelling in driving meaningful change. Together, we can continue to break barriers, inspire communities, and create a brighter future for all.